Discolored Water: Causes, Fixes & Prevention
What Are the Causes?
Discolored water can be caused by sources both inside and outside the house. A water heater that has failed can cause corrosion to break free and discolor the water. Another source from inside the house is corrosion from iron pipes. The water coming in to the house can be discolored from sediments and particulates in the water mains and supply lines. This kind of discoloration may come and go depending on the strain placed on the water system, as more water flows, more sediments can be dislodged. A sudden onset of discoloration may also be caused by work being done on a water main. We can help with our plumbing services.
How Can it Be Fixed?
If your water heater has failed, you will need to contact a plumber to install a replacement. Since the water heater has pieces of the tank breaking off as a cause of this discoloration, this is the only solution. If your house contains iron pipes, a plumber is also the remedy. Iron piping can be replaced with copper or plastic. These materials will not corrode like iron, solving the discoloration issue.
If the discoloration is coming from outside of the house, your recourse is preventing the particulates from entering your household water lines. Your water utility can tell you if the contamination is a long-term or short-term problem. A short-term problem will still require your pipes to be cleared by leaving a faucet on until the water runs clear again. A long term problem requires a long-term solution.
How Do I Prevent It?
Installing a filter will prevent discolored water from the main. Filters are made to address both general particulates and specific contaminants. A plumber can test your water to determine what type of filter meets your needs. Installing a filter will help remove these contaminants, but they must be maintained. Filters must be checked and replaced when they are full or past their lifespan. This is a crucial step that many people do not do, causing them to not be satisfied with their water filters. Additionally, you should have your filter checked by a professional if you notice discoloration returning. A well maintained filter will serve your family well for years.
Bring in a plumber into your Berkeley home to look over your plumbing system and make the necessary corrections. Call Albert Nahman Plumbing & Heating at (510) 876-9725
today!
